So my plan based on reading was to get a mini pc and a nas. But then I realized... what is the best way to connect them. So I started doing more reading. And I confused myself.

So a NAS has it's own CPU and such, and other computers can talk directly to it over the network. But if I am using a mini pc to run the server, then I assume I would want a really fast direct connection to the storage. So it seems like I would want the NAS to be on the network as well as directly connected to the mini PC. And of course the mini pc would need to be on the network as well. Stuff I saw about connecting them directly seemed to pretty much use the Ethernet ports and a crossover cable. So that would mean that both devices would have to have two Ethernet ports, right?

And the bonus question is, would it just be better for the NAS to really be a dumb DAS for the mini pc instead?

Edit to summarize: For having two devices, the consensus is that LAN is good enough (just make sure you have a decent switch between them). A few like doing it all on one device for a variety of reasons.

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[–] Bronzie@sh.itjust.works 1 points 22 hours ago* (last edited 11 hours ago) (1 children)

Mind me asking what your budget is?

Don’t get me wrong, but it seems you’re just starting out and to avoid biting over to much, it might be smart to look at at least some turn key solutions. Building a custom NAS with loads of drives is fun, but can get complicated.

I’d say get a pre-built NAS if you can afford to and run everything there. It’s easier and has loads of support available.

If you feel like you want more power, then consider adding a NUC or even full server later on and migrate over.
Forget about network speed. Wired is always fast enough. You’d strugle finding new hardware without Gbit these days anyways.

At least that’s how I started and with a N100 NUC running Proxmox now, I don’t see myself needing to upgrade for a long time. Learning Linux along the way is fun.

Good luck!

[–] SailorsLife@lemmy.world 2 points 14 hours ago (1 children)

Budget is really more about value than anything, I have money to spend, but I don't like to overspend or waste. Otherwise there are things I know, and things I don't. :) I do know linux, and some docker. I have built a few pc's over the years. But I don't really keep up with hardware stuff. The idea to have a NUC and a NAS just came from what I was reading as it seemed to be what people do. And the plan was to get a pre-built NAS and a mini pc. That way the whole project doesn't get so big it is overwhelming. The software stuff can be complicated from what I read. But I work in software, and I could use more time with docker and such. I was pricing things out when I got thinking about the connection between them, and thus how many ethernet ports I needed on the minipc. It sounds like people are saying that network speeds through a switch should be more than fast enough. I know this is probably the more expensive route, but I think the total cost may be at least reasonable. The minipc is like $169. Seems like the NAS is like $500. And a few hundred for drives. So maybe under a k. The way prices are these days, that doesn't feel terrible. But I don't really have a scope on costs for hardware.

[–] Bronzie@sh.itjust.works 1 points 11 hours ago

Sounds like you are on a good path then, mate.

I agree with the route you are taking. It's a great blend between price and performance. My only "last advice" would be to overspec the NAS a little, as it would suck having to replace it next year as your needs change.

Have fun with your project and feel free to reach out should you have any questions.